Melanotan 1 vs Vialox
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticSexual Health & Libido
Melanotan 1Skin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
Vialox- Summary
- Melanotan 1 (Afamelanotide) is a synthetic analog of α-MSH that selectively stimulates melanogenesis (tanning) through MC1R activation. It provides UV-independent skin pigmentation and is FDA/EMA-approved under the name SCENESSE for erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) and vitiligo.
- Vialox is a synthetic pentapeptide that mimics the activity of conotoxin from cone snails, acting as an antagonist of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction. Similar to Syn-Ake but derived from cone snail venom biochemistry, it reduces facial muscle contraction to smooth expression wrinkles.
- Half-Life
- ~40–60 minutes (free peptide); implant formulation (SCENESSE) releases over months
- Not applicable (topical; effect duration hours)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5–1 mg
- 0.005-0.05% in formulation
- Frequency
- Daily until desired color achieved, then maintenance
- Twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Induces skin pigmentation/tanning without UV exposure
- Provides photoprotection in photosensitivity conditions (EPP)
- FDA-approved for erythropoietic protoporphyria (SCENESSE)
- Approved in EU for EPP treatment
- Anti-inflammatory via MC1R
- Mild libido enhancement
- Potential skin cancer prevention through melanin protection
- Reduces dynamic wrinkles from repetitive facial expressions
- Reversible muscle-relaxing effect without injection
- Smooths forehead, periorbital, and perioral lines
- Complementary to collagen-stimulating peptides
- Well-studied tolerability in cosmetic concentrations
- Can be combined with Syn-Ake for dual conotoxin/viper venom effect
- Side Effects
- Nausea (especially at higher doses)
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- +3 more
- Generally very well-tolerated topically
- Rare contact sensitivity or mild irritation
- No clinically significant systemic neuromuscular effects at cosmetic doses
- Stacks With
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